Leaving the FLDS at 17: Joanna Fischer on faith, family, and finding herself

In this raw, unforgettable conversation, Joanna Fischer—raised in the FLDS (Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)—shares what daily life looked like in Colorado City/Hildale: dawn scripture study, homeschooling, long-sleeve prairie dresses, “no red” rules, and music/movies strictly controlled under Warren Jeffs’ leadership. She explains excommunication and “repenting from afar,” the United Order interviews, arranged marriages, and the fear that followed the 2008 Eldorado, Texas raid.

Joanna also opens up about the turning points that made her question everything—childhood responsibilities in a plural family, strict gender roles, and abuse—and how she found the courage to leave at 17. We talk first jobs, navigating high school and finances without a safety net, shame around sex and body autonomy, healing from religious trauma, rebuilding family ties (including with sister Rosie), and the organizations that quietly help people exit high-control groups.

We cover:

• What the FLDS teaches vs. mainstream LDS beliefs

• Excommunication, “repentance missions,” and the United Order

• Dress/garment standards, the “no red” rule, and modesty culture

• Homeschooling, banned recreation, and hiding music/movies

• The 2008 FLDS ranch raid and community fallout

• Leaving at 17: finding work, school, and a path forward

• Therapy, triggers, and real-world healing after high-control religion

• Reconnecting with siblings, life in Cedar City/St. George, and hope

Resources mentioned:Holding Out Help (Salt Lake City) — support for those leaving polygamous or high-control communities.

Listener note: This episode includes mentions of abuse and religious trauma.

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